India has strict customs regulations regarding the import of gold by travelers. As per the Passport Act of 1967, Indian citizens are allowed to carry up to 1kg of gold, with specific duty-free allowances based on gender:
- Men: Up to 20 grams, with a value cap of Rs 50,000.
- Women: Up to 40 grams, with a value cap of Rs 1,00,000.
- Children: Boys can carry 20 grams (Rs 50,000 cap), while girls can carry 40 grams (Rs 1,00,000 cap).
Eligibility for Gold Import
Indian passport holders or individuals of Indian origin who have resided abroad for at least six months can import gold in their baggage. However, short visits within this six-month period, totaling no more than 30 days, will not impact their eligibility, provided they have not already utilized the exemption.
Gold import in baggage is not permitted for other passengers.
Gold Import Limits & Duty Structure
Gold bars and coins must have the manufacturer’s or refiner’s engraved serial number and metric weight. The applicable customs duties are:
- Gold bars and coins: 12.5% customs duty + 1.25% Social Welfare Surcharge.
- Gold jewelry (non-studded) & tola bars: 12.5% customs duty + 1.25% Social Welfare Surcharge.
- Non-eligible passengers: Subject to a higher customs duty of 38.5%.
Customs Inspection & Declaration
Upon arrival, all passengers must undergo customs checks after immigration clearance and baggage retrieval. Travelers must declare the quantity and type of gold they carry by submitting a prescribed form. The customs duty is calculated as per the 2007 Customs Valuation Rules.
Authorities require supporting documents such as invoices, bills, and purity certificates. Non-compliance may lead to confiscation under Section 111 of the Customs Act, 1962.
Airport Customs Channels
Passengers must choose between two clearance channels:
- Green Channel: For those without dutiable or prohibited items.
- Red Channel: For those carrying dutiable items beyond the duty-free allowance.
Travelers can also declare dutiable goods and currency in advance using the ATITHI mobile app. Declaration is mandatory if:
- The value of foreign currency notes exceeds US $5,000.
- The total value of foreign exchange (including currency) exceeds US $10,000.
Passengers using the Green Channel incorrectly may face fines, legal action, and confiscation of goods.
Foreign Exchange & Cash Limits
There is no upper limit on bringing foreign exchange into India. However, passengers must declare foreign exchange exceeding the above limits. Carrying Indian currency is not permitted, except for returning Indian residents, who can bring up to Rs 25,000.
Customs Duty Violations & Penalties
Failure to declare goods, providing incorrect information, or attempting to smuggle items are serious offenses under the Customs Act. Offenders may face:
- Seizure of goods
- Monetary fines and penalties
- Legal action for misdeclaration or smuggling
The government enforces these regulations to prevent illegal gold imports and safeguard national revenue.
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